Do-It-Yourself "DiY" Home Security Tips - GeoArm Security®

Locking All Perimeter Doors & Windows
Always close and lock all exit doors and windows to your home even when you are home. Do not rely on a simple doorknob lock. Invest in a quality dead bolt and a steel plate that will prevent this from prying open your door.

Securing Sliding Doors
If your sliding doors don't already have a pin-type lock, have one installed. You can also put a rod or wooden stick in the bottom door or window channel.

Closing Your Drapes
Try and keep your drapes closed at all times. If the burglar does not know of a definite reward, chances are they will not take the risk of breaking in without that knowledge.

Turning Down the Telephone Volume
Turn down the volume on your telephone and answering machine. Telephone numbers can be found easily, so safeguard your property by lowering the volume to a level that can not be heard from outside.

Lighting the Outside is Important
Always leave outdoor lights, and at least one indoor light, on when you are not home so that it looks like the house is occupied.

Eliminating any Natural Cover
Keep your landscaping trimmed so that they do not provide natural cover for a burglar. Plants and trees that block the would be criminal from being seen from the road increases the likelihood that your property will be burglarized.

Planting Bushes With Thorns Near Windows
By planting bushes with thorns near windows, as it makes it more difficult for the burglar to pick the window locks. Likewise, it makes it more difficult to escape with your valuables.

Checking Your Door Before Opening for Strangers
Install peepholes or video intercom systems to identify visitors before opening your door.

Hiding Keys Wisely
Try not to hide spare keys outside of your home or business and if you must, make sure they are very well hidden.

Leaving a Car in the Driveway
Park a car at all times in your driveway, especially when you are not at your house. Criminals target houses with empty driveways knowing there is a better chance no one is home.

Protecting Your Alarm Communication Line
Phone lines are exposed on the outside of most houses which leaves them vulnerable to being cut. Criminals understand that most security systems send their signal over the phone line. Avoid this problem by investing in backup communication paths. (e.g. cellular alarm communicator)

Keeping Valuables in a Safe Place
Jewelry, money, and other valuables should always be stored in a security safe. If criminals can't find anything to take they are less likely to stick around.

Checking Battery Operated Smoke Detectors
Battery operated smoke detectors should be tested often to make sure they are functioning properly. Also, these detectors do not last forever. Every 4-5 years they should be replaced because they lose sensitivity. Make sure to never paint over or hang anything from these devices as it will affect how they function.

Being Discrete When on Vacation.
If you are going away for an extended time, have a neighbor or friend collect newspapers daily and keep an eye on your house. This is a better solution than having your mail stopped. The fewer the people that know you are going away the safer your home will be. Also if needed, have someone tend to your lawn. You should also route your phone calls to a cell phone or alternative line because burglars often call a home first as a method to see if someone is there.

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